Degage Ministries Plans New Burton Street Housing Site
The proposed 36-unit facility aims to provide stable housing and private bathrooms for residents in Grand Rapids.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Apartments
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Degage Ministries has entered a purchase agreement to acquire a 4.3-acre site on Burton Street SE in Grand Rapids to develop new housing for people who are chronically homeless. The project, which would house 36 people, is currently pending a zoning amendment from the city.
Why it matters
This development aims to address local housing instability by creating a new facility with supportive services for individuals with complex needs. It builds on the organization's recent experience with its first transitional housing project.
The proposed site at 660 and 670 Burton St. SE spans 4.3 acres and was purchased by Bethany Christian Services for $2.3 million in 2019. The plan calls for interior renovations to the first three floors to ensure each of the 36 residential units includes a private bathroom.
The players
Degage Ministries
A local nonprofit organization that provides support services and housing for individuals experiencing homelessness.
Bethany Christian Services
A global nonprofit based in Grand Rapids that provides social services and previously purchased the Burton Street site.
The details
The project involves converting the existing structure into a supportive facility designed to provide stable housing for those experiencing chronic homelessness. To meet current standards, the organization plans to renovate the first three floors to provide every occupant with their own private bathroom. A portion of the 4.3-acre property may also be developed for market-rate townhomes to balance the site's usage.
Timeline
Bethany Christian Services purchased the property in 2019.
Degage Ministries opened Heartside Landings in early 2024.
Renovations for the new Burton Street site could begin in early 2027.
The Home Front
The proposal follows the regulatory pattern set by the Grand Rapids Planned Redevelopment District zoning framework. This project represents a shift toward expanding supportive housing density within established city corridors.
Nearby homeowners and renters should monitor the upcoming public input sessions regarding the zoning amendment for the Burton Street site. This process provides an opportunity for neighbors to learn about how the proposed renovation will integrate with the existing residential landscape.
The takeaway
This project marks a significant expansion of transitional housing capacity in the area. Neighbors interested in the development's progress should watch for city planning announcements regarding the site's zoning and upcoming construction timelines.
Further reading
Learn more about the local rental landscape and development projects in Grand Rapids Apartments.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WOODTV.
Live Poll
Do you support converting existing neighborhood properties into permanent supportive housing for the chronically homeless?
